A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who was admitted to the telemetry unit after experiencing chest pain, dyspnea, and diaphoresis. Which of the following ECG findings is a manifestation of acute myocardial infarction?
The PR intervals are 0.15 second.
The QT interval is equal to the R-R interval.
The QRS intervals are 0.08 second.
The ST segment is above the isoelectric line.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: The PR interval, which is the time from the onset of atrial depolarization (beginning of the P wave) to the onset of ventricular depolarization (beginning of the QRS complex), normally ranges from 0.12 to 0.20 seconds. A PR interval of 0.15 second is within the normal range and does not indicate an acute myocardial infarction.
Choice B reason: The QT interval represents the total time for ventricular depolarization and repolarization. The normal QT interval varies based on heart rate and gender but is typically less than half of the R-R interval in a normal heart rhythm. Therefore, a QT interval equal to the R-R interval is abnormally prolonged, which may suggest other conditions but is not a specific indicator of acute myocardial infarction.
Choice C reason: The QRS complex reflects ventricular depolarization and normally ranges from 0.06 to 0.10 seconds. A QRS interval of 0.08 second is within the normal range and does not suggest an acute myocardial infarction.
Choice D reason: ST segment elevation is a critical finding in the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction. The ST segment should be at the isoelectric line; elevation above this line is indicative of myocardial injury and is a key diagnostic criterion for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). An elevated ST segment is often seen in the early stages of an acute myocardial infarction and requires immediate medical attention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason : The triglyceride level of 130 mg/dL is within the normal range, which is less than 150 mg/dL for adults. Therefore, this result does not place the client at risk for peripheral arterial disease.
Choice B reason : An HDL level of 84 mg/dL is considered good as it is higher than the minimum recommended level of 40 mg/dL for males and 50 mg/dL for females. Higher levels of HDL are protective against heart disease.
Choice C reason : A blood glucose level of 92 mg/dL is within the normal fasting range of 70 to 99 mg/dL. This indicates that the client does not have diabetes, which is a risk factor for peripheral arterial disease.
Choice D reason : An LDL level of 172 mg/dL is considered high since the optimal level for LDL is less than 100 mg/dL. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis, increasing the risk for peripheral arterial disease.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason : Morphine is an opioid analgesic used to relieve severe pain and can be administered to patients with myocardial infarction to alleviate chest pain and anxiety. However, it is not the first medication given as it does not address the underlying cause of the myocardial infarction, which is the formation of a blood clot in the coronary arteries.
Choice B reason : Nitroglycerin is a nitrate that helps to dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow. It can be used to relieve chest pain in myocardial infarction, but similar to morphine, it is not the initial medication of choice. The priority is to prevent further blood clotting.
Choice C reason : Administered as soon as possible to inhibit platelet aggregation and reduce clot progression.
Choice D reason : When a myocardial infarction (MI) is suspected, the priority is to address tissue hypoxia and ensure adequate oxygenation to minimize myocardial damage. Administering oxygen helps increase oxygen availability to the ischemic heart tissue, reducing further damage.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.